Akron at Ball State Picks and Prediction for Saturday, October 18, 2025
The Akron Zips head to Muncie, Indiana to take on the Ball State Cardinals in a Mid-American Conference showdown on Saturday. Get in on all the action with our free college football picks.
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Akron Zips Analysis
Akron has been inconsistent but recently found life behind a strong running effort. Their offense still has limitations, and defense has been a liability.
Key Player Stats & Team Metrics
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Jordan Gant (RB) has been Akron’s standout in 2025 — his 176 rushing yards vs Central Michigan earned him Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week honors.
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On the season, Akron’s passing leader Ben Finley has thrown for 1,157 passing yards.
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Akron currently averages ~ 19.5 points per game offensively, while allowing ~ 33.1 points per game defensively.
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Akron suffered a tough 68–0 loss to Nebraska, highlighting the gap vs Power 5 opponents.
Akron’s strength is clearly in their running back Gant and any game scripts that allow him to carry the load. Their weaknesses include passing efficiency, defensive lapses, and limited explosive plays.
Ball State Cardinals Analysis
Ball State enters this game after a 42-0 thrashing at the hands of Western Michigan.
Key Player Stats & Team Metrics
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Running back Qua Ashley (RB, Jr.) is expected to be a focal point of Ball State’s offense.
- Kiael Kelly can provide some electric plays at QB, and has accounted for 6 TD's this season.
Ball State will want to lean on Ashley in the ground game, maintain possession, and avoid turnovers. Their offense must show balance under the new scheme.
Standout Players and Key Notes
Akron:
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Jordan Gant is their engine — when he’s going, Akron is more explosive and harder to stop.
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Ben Finley (QB) must protect the ball better and extend drives.
Ball State:
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Qua Ashley must be effective and consistent to keep Akron’s defense honest.
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The Ball State offensive line and receivers must create space for the run and help the passing game.
Ball State vs Akron Prediction Reasoning
This game should be competitive, especially if Akron leans into Gant’s rushing and keeps things close early. But Ball State’s home advantage, adjustments in their new offense, and motivation to stabilize will make them tough to beat.
If Akron can limit miscues and force Ball State into uncomfortable situations (third downs, red zone), they have a shot. But we lean toward Ball State pulling this one out.
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Final Score Projection: Ball State 28, Akron 24
Best Picks
- Ball State ML
- Over 43.5 total points
